Folk art or fine art, any image is a combination of shapes. They give structure to my assemblage, sculptural and painterly works. I watch and listen as they converse with each other through volume, position, color, and form. Those are my guides for creating cohesive art.

Sunday, October 23, 2011

My Professional Halloween Outfit

It is a ritual getting ready for Halloween. It's also something I do everyday. But I figure it substitutes easily as a good Halloween outfit. Here's how it goes:
First, the splinters. My hands wouldn't be in costume without them. It can be obtained by working continually on wood assemblage. Many make a better effect. Best to start a week or so early. (When was my last tetanus shot?) They can be embellished by fingertips painted with black primer or exterior house paint. It's usually applied while holding an art piece as I paint all sides.
Then, the ear protectors. Makes a good first impression. They are the large, old fashioned kind. Sort of like the headphones we used to wear back in the 70's but instead of blasting music, they only permit you to listen to yourself breathing.
Which brings me to the next part: the face mask. I think this is the piece de resistance. There's nothing like the combined vision of ear and face protection to send the cats running. Very effective. Of course, turning on the power saw doesn't hurt either. More atmosphere. When donning the face mask, I like the way it makes my hair stand on end. And the sawdust/wood chips add highlights. They are continually applied during the multiple 'on and offs' necessary while in costume.
Now the clothes can be more creative. A woodworker's apron with many layers of multicolored paint is considered the little black dress of the outfit. Many times it is worn over flannel pajamas, sans foundation, with mismatched oversized socks. The ability of the socks to pick up sawdust and grit give them an animalistic allure.
There you have it. An astonishing vision to trick or treaters on either side of the door.

3 comments:

OMG I love your description! I can see the sawdust flying like glitter as you walk to the door with the bowl of treats! Your costume does sound scary! LOL!I think I will be dressed as a tired old hag. No costume required! :D - Cindi

You make me laugh Robin and I thank your for that! I'm in my studio costume on this Day of the Dead.....paint covered black yoga pants, black long sleeved shirt (also paint covered ), and my blue doctor's coat (paint across the chest area from leaning across a wet painting). Looking good!